U.S. patent number 7,318,817 [Application Number 11/001,628] was granted by the patent office on 2008-01-15 for minimal access lumbar diskectomy instrumentation and method.
This patent grant is currently assigned to K2M, Inc.. Invention is credited to James S. Hamada.
United States Patent |
7,318,817 |
Hamada |
January 15, 2008 |
Minimal access lumbar diskectomy instrumentation and method
Abstract
A minimal incision maximal access system allows for maximum
desirable exposure along with maximum access to the operative field
utilizing a minimum incision as small as the METRx and Endius
systems. Instead of multiple insertions of dilating tubes the
design is is a streamlined single entry device to avoid repetitive
skin surface entry. The system offers the capability to expand to
optimum exposure size for the surgery utilizing hinged
bi-hemispherical or oval working tubes applied over an introducer
obturator which is controllably dilated to slowly separate muscle
tissue. Deeper end working and visualization areas with maximum
proximal access and work dimensions are provided to makes the
operative procedure safer in application and shorten the surgeons's
learning curve because it most closely approximates the ability to
use open microdiskectomy techniques.
Inventors: |
Hamada; James S. (Manhattan
Beach, CA) |
Assignee: |
K2M, Inc. (Leesburg,
VA)
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Family
ID: |
32174598 |
Appl.
No.: |
11/001,628 |
Filed: |
November 30, 2004 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20050101985 A1 |
May 12, 2005 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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10280624 |
Oct 25, 2002 |
6849064 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
604/164.01;
604/164.05 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B
17/02 (20130101); A61B 17/0206 (20130101); A61B
17/025 (20130101); A61B 17/3439 (20130101); A61B
17/0218 (20130101); A61B 2017/00261 (20130101); A61B
2017/00398 (20130101); A61B 2017/00734 (20130101); A61B
2017/0256 (20130101); A61B 2017/2837 (20130101); A61M
29/02 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A61M
5/178 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;604/164.01,164.03,164.04,164.05,164.1,164.11,164.12,264
;606/184,185,205 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Other References
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Microendoscopic Foraminotomy: An Initial Clincal Experience.
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cases. Neurosurgery 13: 504-521, 1983. cited by other .
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randomized studv comparing the results of open discectomy with
those of video-assisted arthroscopic microdiscectomy. I Bone Joint
Surge Am S1A:958-965, 1999. cited by other .
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posterior lumbar spine surgery: A histologic and enzymatic
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Lin PM: Posterior lilmbar interbody fusion technique: Complications
and pitfalls, Clinical Orthopedics 193:90-102, 1985. cited by other
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Lin PM, Cautilli RA, Joyce MF: Posterior lumbar interbody fusion.
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Finoja S, Kalimo H: The lumbar multifidus muscle five years after
surgery for a lumbar intervertebral disc herniation. Spine
18:568-574, 1993. cited by other .
Rob SW, Kim DH, Cardoso AC, Fessier RG: Endoscopic foraminotomy
using MED system in cadaveric specimens. Spine 25:260-264, 2000.
cited by other .
Sihvonen T, Herno A, Palijarva L, Airaksinen O, Partanen J,
Tapaninaho A: Local denervation atrophy of paraspinal muscles in
postoperative failed back syndrome. Spine 18:575-581, 1993. cited
by other .
StyflR, Willen J: The effects of external compression by three
different retractors on pressure in the erector spine muscles
during and after posterior lumbar spine surgery in humans. Spine
23:354-358, 1998. cited by other .
Tsai RYC, Yang RS, Bray RS: Microscopic laminotomies for
degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis. J Spinal Disord 11:389-394,
1998. cited by other .
Weber BR, Grod D, Dvorak J, Muntener M: Posterior surgical approach
to the lumbar spine and its effect on the multifidus muscle. Spine
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Endius: The Pioneer ofEndoscopic Spine Fusion Atavi System:
Endoscopic Posterolateral Fusion (Internet Reference). cited by
other.
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Primary Examiner: Truong; Kevin T.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Carter, DeLuca, Farrell &
Schmidt, LLP
Parent Case Text
This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/280,624 filed Oct. 25, 2002 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,849,064.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An obturator comprising: an upper control housing having a bore
therethrough, at least a portion of said bore having an internal
threaded surface; a control shaft extending through said upper
control housing bore having a first end and a second end and having
an externally threaded surface complementary and engaging said
internal threaded surface of said bore of said upper control
housing; a wedging member attached at said second end of said
control shaft; a first spreading leg pivotally mounted with respect
to said upper control housing and carrying at least a first portion
of an internal wedge conforming space surrounding said wedging
member; a second spreading leg pivotally mounted with respect to
said upper control housing and carrying at least a second portion
of said internal wedge conforming space surrounding said wedging
member, whereby movement of said wedging member causes said first
and said second spreading leg to move angularly away from each
other upon the turning of said control shaft.
2. The obturator of claim 1 wherein said first and second spreading
legs are hingeably attached to said control housing.
3. The obturator of claim 1 wherein said first and second spreading
legs are hingeably attached to each other.
4. The obturator of claim 1 and further comprising a central
support block attached to said first and second spreading legs.
5. The obturator of claim 1 wherein said internal threaded surface
of said upper control housing is contained within a ball nut.
6. The obturator of claim 1 wherein a first bore extends through
said control shaft, and wherein said first and second spreading
legs each form a portion of a second bore collinear with said first
bore, for accommodating a guide pin through said control shaft and
said first and second spreading legs.
7. The obturator of claim 1 wherein said control shaft has a knob
to facilitate manual turning of the control shaft.
8. The obturator of claim 1 wherein each spreading leg further
comprises: an upper portion having an insertion tang; and a lower
spreading leg portion having an insertion slot for interfitting
with said insertion tang.
9. An obturator and working tube kit for performing a surgical
procedure at a location in a patient's body comprising the
obturator of claim 1 and a working tube.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to improvements in the field of
minimal access lumbar posterior surgery and more particularly to
instrumentation which allows for maximal access to the surgical
field through the smallest possible incision. Greater access is
allowed into the working field while enjoying the reduction of
trauma and disturbance to surrounding tissues, which results in a
reduced the time necessary to complete the operative procedure,
increased safety of the procedure, and increased accuracy by
providing an expanded working field.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Microscopic Lumbar Diskectomy techniques were developed and
championed by Dr. Robert Williams in the late 1970's and by Dr.
John McCullough in the late 1980's and 1990's. For the first time
since the advent of Lumbar Disc Surgery by Mixter and Barr in 1934
a method was introduced allowing Lumbar Disc Surgery to be
performed through a small incision safely resulting in faster
patient recovery and converting a two to five hospital stay
procedure virtually to an outpatient procedure.
The special retractors developed by Drs. Williams and McCullough
however were often difficult to maintain in optimum position and
relied on the interspinous and supraspinatus ligaments for a
counter fixation point severely stretching the structures. This
stretching along with the effects of partial facectomy, diskectomy,
removal of the ligamentum flavum and posterior longitudinal
ligament contributed to the development of Post Diskectomy
Instability. Taylor retractors were also used but were cumbersome,
required larger incisions and often injured the facet joints.
Dr. William Foley in 1997 introduced a tubular system mated to an
endoscope which he labeled a Minimal Endoscopic Diskectomy (MED)
system. It featured sequentially dilating the Lumbar Paraspinous
Muscles allowing a working channel to be advanced down to the level
of operation through which nerve root decompression and Diskectomy
Surgery could be performed with a small incision and less muscle
trauma. Improvements were made by Dr. Foley in his second
generation METRx system. However, there were several disadvantages
to the MED and METRx systems.
In the MED and METRx systems, the cylindrical working channel
considerably restricted visualization and passage of instruments.
It also compromised the "angle of approach" necessary for safe
usage of the operating instruments. This problem was
proportionately aggravated with the long length of the tube. This
compromised visualization contributed to the following problems,
including nerve injury, dural tear, missed disc fragments,
inadequate decompression of the lateral recess, increased epidural
bleeding, difficulty controlling epidural bleeding, inadequate
visualization of the neuroforamen, and inadequate decompression of
neuroforamen.
The repetitive introduction of successively larger dilators caused
skin abrasion with the potential for carrying superficial skin
organisms down to the deeper tissue layers hypothetically
increasing the risk of infection. The learning curve for operating
in a two dimension endoscopic field proved to be arduous and
contributed to the above complications.
The attempted use of the METRx system for more complex procedures
such as fusion was further hazardous by inherent limitations.
Endius in September of 2000 then introduced a similar device which
differed by having an expandable foot piece to allow greater
coverage of the operative field. However, the enlarged foot piece
was unwieldy and difficult to seat properly. Exposure of the angle
of approach was also limited by having to operate through a
proximal cylindrical tube with its limitations as described before.
In comparison to the METRx system the working area was improved but
access was again restricted by the smaller proximal cylinder.
Both systems offered endoscopic capability but many spine surgeons
chose to use an operating microscope or loupes to maintain
3-Dimensional visualization rather than the depth impaired
2-Dimensional endoscopic presentation. Keeping debris off of the
endoscopic lens has also proved to be a troubling challenge.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The system and method of the invention, hereinafter minimal
incision maximal access system, includes a surgical operating
system that allows for maximum desirable exposure along with
maximum access to the operative field utilizing a minimum incision
as small as the METRx and Endius systems. The minimal incision
maximal access system disclosed offers advantages over the METRx
and Endius systems in several respects. First, instead of multiple
insertions of Dilating Tubes the Invention is a streamlined single
entry device. This avoids repetitive skin surface entry. Second,
the minimal incision maximal access system offers the capability to
expand to optimum exposure size for the surgery utilizing hinged
bi-hemispherical or oval Working Tubes applied over an introducer
Obturator which is controllably dilated to slowly separate muscle
tissue.
Third, the minimal incision maximal access system maximizes deeper
end working and visualization area with maximum proximal access and
work dimensions significantly greater than either the METRx or
Endius devices and methods. Fourth, the minimal incision maximal
access system provides expanded visual and working field to makes
the operative procedure safer in application and shorten the
surgeons's learning curve because it most closely approximates the
open microdiskectomy techniques. Fifthly, the minimal incision
maximal access system has a tapered ended Obturator which allows
for tissue spread rather than muscle tissue tear and subsequent
necrosis.
Sixth, the minimal incision maximal access system controls muscle
oozing into the operative field which is controlled by simply
opening the tubes further. This also thereby controls the bleeding
by pressure to the surrounding tissues. Seventh, in contrast to the
cylindrical tube based systems such as the METRx and Endius the
minimal incision maximal access system offers a larger working area
in proportion to the working depth. For the first time this allows
for a minimal access technique to be applied to the large or obese
patients. The enlarged footprint of the longer tubes in the minimal
incision maximal access system is a major difference from any other
minimal access system.
An eighth advantage of the minimal incision maximal access system
is that ist expandable design allows for excellent exposure for
more complex procedures such as fusion and instrumentation
including TLIF, PLIF, and TFIF (Transfacet Interbody Fusion), as
well as allowing application for anterolateral lumbar disc surgery.
The minimal incision maximal access system can also be used for
cervical surgery posteriorly (foraminotomy, lateral mass
instrumented fusion) as well as anterior cervical diskectomy and
fusion. The minimal incision maximal access system can also be used
for anterior lumbar interbody fusion be it retroperitoneal,
transperitoneal or laparoscopic.
A ninth advantage of the minimal incision maximal access system is
that the medial oval cutout of the retractors, or sleeve forming
the working tube, allows more central docking on the spine which is
problematic for other devices. A medialized docking provides access
for easier and better and safer dural retraction to address midline
pathology. A tenth advantage is had by including an anti-reflective
inner surface of the retractor sleeves which eliminates unwanted
glare.
An eleventh advantage of the minimal incision maximal access system
includes the slanted and contoured distal end of the retractor
sleeve which allows minimal resistance for entry and advancement to
the docking site. A twelfth advantage minimal incision maximal
access system is the provision of a variety of retractor tips
specific for different surgical procedures.
A thirteenth advantage of the minimal incision maximal access
system is the provision of oval retractor sleeves for larger access
requirements such as pedicle to pedicle exposure and especially in
the case where pedicle screw instrumentation is to be applied. This
minimizes unnecessary muscle spread by providing a smaller waist
profile than a circular system. A fourteenth advantage of the
minimal incision maximal access system is that the larger retractor
sleeve also features one or two "skirts" to cover the lateral
aperture created by the spread of the two retractor sleeves when
opened. This prevents soft tissue and muscle ingress into the
working cone. The skirts are attached to the working tube either at
the hinge or on one of the two halves of the sleeve.
A fifteenth advantage of the minimal incision maximal access system
is the provision of a modular design in which the retractor sleeves
can be quickly removed, changed and reapplied. In this version the
proximal port can also be modular and changeable to fit the needs
of a specific surgical procedure. A sixteenth advantage of the
minimal incision maximal access system is that the retractor
sleeves can be made out of metal, ceramic or plastic, can be opaque
or translucent, and can have tips of different shapes for different
applications. A seventeenth advantage is the provision of snap lock
connections of the major parts of the Invention provides for easy
assembly and disengagement for cleaning and sterilization
purposes.
Further, the Obturator is cannulated for carrying a central Guide
Pin Passage. It has a Handle component which remains superficial to
the skin. The obturator houses an internal hinge device which
allows for spread of the two obturator tips.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention, its configuration, construction, and operation will
be best further described in the following detailed description,
taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a working tube with an angled upper
section and shown in position with respect to an obturator
insertable into and workable within the working tube;
FIG. 2 is a perspective assembled view illustrating the relative
positions of the obturator and working tube;
FIG. 3 is a perspective assembled view illustrates the position of
the obturator after it has been inserted into the working tube;
FIG. 4 is a view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2 and looking into
the working tube of FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2 and
looking into the hinge of working tube of FIG. 1, illustrating its
hinge connections;
FIG. 6 is an side end view of the working tube of FIGS. 1-5 and
illustrating predominantly one of the rigidly connected halves of
the invention;
FIG. 7 is a side sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6 and
showing the internal bearing pivot;
FIG. 8 is a side sectional view taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 5 and
illustrating a option for external bevel for the working tube;
FIG. 9 is a side view of the working tube of FIGS. 1-8 shown with
the lower portions in parallel alignment and the upper portions
angled with respect to each other;
FIG. 10 is a side view of the working tube as seem in FIG. 9 and
shown with the lower portions in an angled relationship and the
upper portions in a closer angled relationship with respect to each
other;
FIG. 11 is a side view of the working tube as seen in FIGS. 9 and
10 and shown with the lower portions in a maximally angled
relationship and the upper portions in parallel alignment signaling
maximal spread of the lower portions in bringing the upper portions
into parallel alignment;
FIG. 12 is a side view of the obturator of FIG. 1 and seen in an
assembled view and emphasizing a through bore seen in dashed line
format;
FIG. 13 is a side view of the obturator of FIG. 11 as seen in an
assembled view but turned ninety degrees about its axis and
emphasizing the through bore;
FIG. 14 shows a side view of the obturator 33 of FIG. 13 with the
spreading legs in an angled apart relationship;
FIG. 15 is a sectional view taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 12 and
gives a sectional view from the same perspective seen in FIG.
14;
FIG. 16 is a view of the obturator similar to that seen in FIG. 15,
but turned ninety degrees along its axis and illustrates the wedge
as having a narrower dimension to lend internal stability;
FIG. 17 is a closeup view of the external hinge assembly seen in
FIG. 1 and illustrates the optional use of a plug to cover the
exposed side of a circular protrusion;
FIG. 18 is a view taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 11 and illustrates
the use of an optional skirt having flexible members which spread
from an initial curled position to a straightened position to
better isolate the surgical field;
FIG. 19 is a view of the lower tube hemicylindrical portions 65 and
69 in a close relationship illustrating the manner in which the
skirts sections within their accommodation slots areas;
FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of the a patient and spine and
facilitates illustration of the general sequence of steps taken for
many procedures utilizing the minimal incision maximal access
system disclosed;
FIG. 21 illustrates a fascial incisor overfitting a guide pin and
further inserted to cut through external and internal tissue;
FIG. 22 illustrates the assembled Working Tube--Obturator being
inserted into the area previously occupied by the fascial incisor
and advanced to the operative level lamina;
FIG. 23 illustrates the obturator 33 being actuated to a spread
orientation to which automatically actuates the working tube to a
spread orientation;
FIG. 24 is a view of the working tube 35 is in place and supported,
held or stabilized in the field of view by a telescopy support arm
and engagement, the opposite end of the stabilizing structure
attached to the operating table;
FIG. 25 illustrates further details of the support arm seen in FIG.
24, especially the use of a ball joint;
FIG. 26 illustrates a side view of the assembly seen in FIG. 25 is
seen with an adjustable clamp operable to hold the working tube
open at any position;
FIG. 27 is a top view looking down upon the adjustable clamp seen
in FIGS. 25-26 and shows the orientation of the working tube and
adjustable clamp in fully closed position;
FIG. 28 shows a variation on the obturator seen previously in FIG.
1 and illustrates the use of handles which are brought
together;
FIG. 29 illustrates a further variation on the obturator seen
previously in FIG. 1 and illustrates the use of a central ball
nut;
FIG. 30 is a sectional view taken along line 30-30 of FIG. 29 and
illustrates the use of a central support block to support the
central threaded surface;
FIG. 31 is a top view of a thin, inset hinge utilizable with any of
the obturators herein, but particularly obturators of FIGS. 1 and
29;
FIG. 32 is a sectional view of the obturator of FIG. 1 within the
working tube of FIG. 1 with the wedge 51 seen at the bottom of an
internal wedge conforming space;
FIG. 33 illustrates the obturator seen in FIG. 32 as returned to
its collapsed state.
FIG. 34 illustrates a top and schematic view of the use of a remote
power control to provide instant control of the working tube using
an adjustable restriction on the upper angled hemicylindrical
portions of the working tube;
FIG. 35 is a view taken along line 35-35 of FIG. 34 and
illustrating the method of attachment of the cable or band
constriction; and
FIG. 36 is a mechanically operated version of the nut and bolt
constriction band seen in FIG. 25.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
The description and operation of the minimal incision maximal
access system will be best described with reference to FIG. 1 and
identifying a general system 31. System 31 includes an obturator 33
and a working tube 35. The orientation of the obturator 33 is in a
slightly displaced from a position of alignment with the working
tube 35 for entry into working tube 35 and to provide the initial
carefully controlled force for spreading the working tube 35, as
will be shown.
Obturator includes an upper control housing 37 and a pair of
spreading legs 39 and 41. The spreading legs 39 and 41 are seen as
coming together to form a conical tip and thus have hemi conical
end portions. The spreading legs 39 and 41 overfit attachment leg
portions 43 and 45, respectively. At the top of the upper control
housing 37 a boss 47 surrounds and supports the extension of a
control shaft 49. A knurled thumb knob 50 sits atop the control
shaft 49 to facilitate controlled turning of the control shaft 49
to control the degree of spreading of the spreading legs 39 and 41.
Thus spreading can be controlled independently of pressure applied
along the length of the obturator 33.
Below the upper control housing 37 is the bottom of the control
shaft 49 which operates against a wedge 51. The wedge 51 operates
within a pair of opposing slots 52 in an upper portion 53 of the
overfit attachment leg portions 43 and 45. The lower ends of the
overfit attachment leg portions 43 and 45 include insertion tangs
55 which fit within insertion slots 57 of the spreading legs 39 and
41. The overfit attachment leg portions 43 and 45 are pivotally
attached to the upper control housing 37 internally by pivot blocks
59 which fit within access apertures 60.
The working tube 35 has a first lower extending connection tang 61
and a second lower extending connection tang 63. First lower
extending connection tang 61 connects into a slot 64 of a lower
tube hemicylindrical portion 65. The first lower extending
connection tang 61 is fixed to an upper angled hemicylindrical
portion 67. The second lower extending connection tang 63 connects
into a slot 68 of a lower tube hemicylindrical portion 69. Second
lower extending connection tang 61 is fixed to and an upper angled
hemicylindrical portion 71. The upper angled hemicylindrical
portion 67 has a reinforced wear plate 73 for applying upper
pressure and force on the upper angled hemicylindrical portions 67
and 71 toward each other to cause the first and second lower
extending connection tangs 61 & 63 and their connected lower
tube hemicylindrical portions 65 and 69 to be urged away from each
other.
At the side of the working tube 35 at the transition between the
upper angled hemicylindrical portions 67 and 71 and a point just
above the first and second lower extending connection tangs 61
& 63 is an external hinge assembly 77. Hinge assembly 77 may
include an optional first guide plate 79 and first circular
protrusion 81 attached to upper angled hemicylindrical portions 67,
and a first slotted plate 83 positioned adjacent to first guide
plate 79 and having a slot partially surrounding the circular
protrusion 81.
Upper angled hemicylindrical portion 71 has a pair of spaced apart
facing surfaces facing a matching pair of facing surfaces of the
upper angled hemicylindrical portion 67, of which a dividing line
85 is seen. Upper angled hemicylindrical portions 67 and 71 are be
brought together to cause the first and second lower extending
connection tangs 61 & 63 and their connected lower tube
hemicylindrical portions 65 and 69 to spread apart.
In the View of FIG. 1, the first and second lower extending
connection tangs 61 & 63 are shown in a spread apart
relationship. A locking pin 87 is seen which can be used to engage
angularly spaced apart apertures in the circular protrusion 81 to
provide a detent action to hold the working tube 35 in various
degrees of spread. Also seen is a slight exterior bevel 89 on the
lower tube hemicylindrical portions 65 and 69.
Note the angled separation of the upper angled hemicylindrical
portions 67 and 71 and exposing opposing surfaces 91. The angle of
the opposing surfaces 91 equals the angle of spread of the first
and second lower extending connection tangs 61 & 63.
Referring to FIG. 2, a perspective assembled view illustrates the
relative positions of the obturator 33 and working tube 35 in a
position for the obturator 33 to be inserted into the working tube
35 and before any spreading takes place.
Referring to FIG. 3, a perspective assembled view illustrates the
position of the obturator 33 after it has been inserted into the
working tube 35 and again before any spreading takes place. Note
that the pivot axes of the first and second lower extending
connection tangs 61 & 63 are on par with the pivot axes of the
insertion tangs 55. The tip of the obturator 33 extends slightly
beyond the bottom most part of the working tube 35 so that the
completed assembly can be smoothly urged past muscle and other
tissue.
Referring to FIG. 4, a view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 1 is a
view looking down into the working tube 35. Other features seen
include a wear plate 93 located on the upper angled hemicylindrical
portion 71. In both of the wear plates 73 and 93 a universal port
94 is provided as a bore for insertion of a tool or lever to assist
in bringing the upper angled hemicylindrical portions 67 and 71
into a tubular relationship. Further, an identical hinge assembly
77 on the side opposite that seen in FIG. 1 is shown with the same
numbering as the components which were seen in FIG. 1.
Also seen are a pair of opposing surfaces 95 on upper angled
hemicylindrical portion 71 and a pair of opposing surfaces 97 on
upper angled hemicylindrical portion 67. Also seen is a central
working aperture 99.
Referring to FIG. 5, a view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 1 is a
sectional view looking down into the working tube 35. The
connectivity of the structures seen in FIG. 4 are emphasized
including the connection of circular protrusion 81 to the upper
angled hemicylindrical portion 71, and the connection of first
slotted plate 83 to upper angled hemicylindrical portion 67, and
which is indicated by the matching section lines Further, an
identical hinge assembly 77 on the side opposite that seen in FIG.
1 is shown with the same numbering as the components which were
seen in FIG. 1.
Referring to FIG. 6, a view of one end of the working tube 35
illustrates predominantly the second angled half portion 63.
Elements seen in FIGS. 1 and 2 are made more clear in FIG. 3.
Referring to FIG. 7, a side sectional view taken along line 7-7 of
FIG. 6 and shows the internal bearing pivot consisting of a
slightly greater than hemispherical side bump projection 101
located on upper angled hemicylindrical portion 71, and a slightly
less than hemispherical side circular groove 103 located on upper
angled hemicylindrical portion 67. Also seen is the interconnect
slots 64 and 68 as well as the first and second lower extending
connection tangs 61 and 63. In the showing of FIG. 7 an external
bevel 105 is utilized.
Referring to FIG. 8, a side semi-sectional view taken along line
8-8 of FIG. 5 illustrates the integral connectivity of circular
protrusion 81 with the upper angled hemicylindrical portion 71.
Seen for the first time in isolation are a pair of pin apertures
107 for engaging the locking pin 87.
Referring to FIG. 9, an illustration of a side plan view and in
which the lower tube hemicylindrical portions 65 and 69 are in
matching straight alignment and forming a lower tube shape, while
the upper angled hemicylindrical portions 67 and 71 are angled
apart.
Referring to FIG. 10, a midpoint of movement is illustrates wherein
the lower tube hemicylindrical portions 65 and 69 have begun to
move apart widening the lower tube shape previously formed into an
angled apart opposing hemicylindrical shape, while the upper angled
hemicylindrical portions 67 and 71 are brought closer together to
have a closer though angled apart an angled apart opposing
hemicylindrical shape.
Referring to FIG. 11, a completed movement, with respect to the
view of FIG. 4 illustrates a state where the lower tube
hemicylindrical portions 65 and 69 have moved apart to their
maximum extent into a maximally angled apart opposing
hemicylindrical shape, while the upper angled hemicylindrical
portions 67 and 71 are brought completely together to form an upper
tube shape. It is the position of FIG. 6 which is the ideal working
position once the lower tube hemicylindrical portions 65 and 69 are
within the body, and provides an expanded working field at the base
of the working tube 35. Surgical work is ideally performed through
the upper, abbreviated axial length tube shape formed by the upper
angled hemicylindrical portions 67 and 71.
Referring to FIG. 12, a side view of the obturator 33 of FIG. 1 is
seen in an assembled view and emphasizing in dashed line format a
through bore 111 which extends though the obturator 33 from the
knurled knob 50 through to the tip of the pair of spreading legs 39
and 41.
Referring to FIG. 13, a side view of the obturator 33 of FIG. 11 is
seen in an assembled view but turned ninety degrees about its axis,
and agin emphasizing in dashed line format the through bore 111
which extends though the obturator 33 from the knurled knob 50
through to the tip of the pair of spreading legs 39 and 41. It is
from this position that further actuation will be illustrated.
Referring to FIG. 14, a side view of the obturator 33 of FIG. 13 is
seen but with the spreading legs 39 and 41 in an angled apart
relationship. An optional support 112 is supported by the upper
control housing 37 to enable independent support and locationing of
the obturator 33 should it be needed. Once the knurled knob 50 is
turned, the wedge 51 seen in FIG. 1 is driven downward causing the
spreading of the spreading legs 39 and 41.
Referring to FIG. 15, a sectional view taken along line 14-14 of
FIG. 12 gives a sectional view from the same perspective seen in
FIG. 14. Pivot blocks 59 are seen as having pivot bores 113 which
enable the upper portions 53 to pivot with respect to the upper
control housing 37 and which enable the downward movement of the
wedge 51 to translate into a spreading of the spreading legs 39 and
41.
As can be seen, the knob 50 and control shaft 49 and the wedge 51
have the through bore 111. In the configuration shown, the control
shaft 49 includes a threaded portion 113 which engaged an
internally threaded portion 115 of an internal bore 117 of the
upper control housing 37. The boss 47 is shown to be part of a
larger insert fitting within a larger fitted bore 119 within the
upper control housing 37. This configuration pushes the wedge 51
downwardly against an internal wedge conforming space 123 to cause
the insertion tangs 55 and upper portions 53 to spread apart. The
wedge conforming space 123 need not be completely wedge shaped
itself, but should ideally have a surface which continuously and
evenly in terms of area engages the wedge 51 to give even control.
Further, the wedge 51 can be configured to be rotatable with or
independently rotationally stable with respect to the control shaft
49. As can be seen, the through bore 111 continues below the
internal wedge conforming space 123 as a pair of hemicylindrical
surfaces 125 in the upper portion 53, as well as a pair of
hemicylindrical surfaces 127 in the pair of spreading legs 39 and
41.
Referring to FIG. 16 a view of obturator 33 similar to that of FIG.
15, but turned ninety degrees along its axis is seen. In this view,
the wedge 51 is seen as having a narrower dimension to lend
internal stability by narrowing the bearing area of the wedge 51
action in opening the pair of spreading legs 39 and 41.
Referring to FIG. 17, a closeup view of the external hinge assembly
77 seen in FIG. 1 illustrates the optional use of a plug 131 to
cover the exposed side of the circular protrusion 81.
Referring to FIG. 18, a view taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 11
illustrates a view which facilitates the showing of an optional
skirt, including a skirt section 133 welded or otherwise attached
to lower tube hemicylindrical portion 65, and a skirt section 133
welded or otherwise attached to lower tube hemicylindrical portion
69. The skirts sections 133 and 135 are made of thin flexible metal
and interfit within a pair of accommodation slots 137 and 139,
respectively.
Referring to FIG. 19, a view of the lower tube hemicylindrical
portions 65 and 69 in a close relationship illustrates the manner
in which the skirts sections 133 and 135 fit within the
accommodation slots 137 and 139 when the lower tube hemicylindrical
portions 65 and 69 are brought together to a circular
configuration.
Referring to FIG. 20, a cross sectional view of the a patient 151
spine 153 is shown for illustration of the general sequence of
steps taken for any procedure utilizing the minimal incision
maximal access system 31. There are several procedures utilizable
with the minimal incision maximal access system 31. Only a first
procedure will be discussed using illustrative figures. Other
procedures will be discussed after minor variations on the minimal
incision maximal access system 31 are given below.
Procedure I: Diskectomy and Nerve Decompression
The patient 151 is placed prone on radiolucent operating table such
as a Jackson Table. The patient 151 is then prepared and draped.
The operative area is prepared and localized and an imaging device
is prepared. A guide pin 155 is insert through the patient's skin
157, preferably under fluoroscopic guidance. In the alternative and
or in combination, the patient 151 skin can be incised with a
scalpel. Other features in FIG. 20 include the dural sac 159, and
ruptured intervertebral disc 161.
Referring to FIG. 21, a fascial incisor 169 overfits the guide pin
155 and is further inserted to cut through external and internal
tissue. The fascial incisor 169 is then removed while the guide pin
155 is left in place. Next, using the obturator 33, the surgeon
clears the multifidus attachment with wig-wag motion of the
obturator 33 tip end. Next the obturator 33 is actuated to gently
spread the multifidus muscle, and then closed.
Referring to FIG. 22, next the assembled Working Tube 35--Obturator
33 is inserted into the area previously occupied by the fascial
incisor 169 and advanced to the operative level lamina and remove
the obturator 33. As an alternative, and upon having difficulty,
the obturator 33 could be initially inserted, followed by an
overfit of the working tube 35. In another possibility, a smaller
size of obturator 33 and working tube 35 or combination thereof
could be initially utilized, followed by larger sizes of the same
obturator 33 and working tube 35. The assembled Working Tube
35--Obturator 33 in place is shown in FIG. 22 with the working ends
very near the spine.
Referring to FIG. 23, the obturator 33 is actuated to a spread
orientation, which automatically actuates the working tube 35 to a
spread orientation. Spread is had to the desired exposure size. The
obturator 33 is thin actuated to a closed or non-spreading
position. The obturator and working tube is then again advanced to
dock on the spine. The working tube 35 is then fixed to assume an
open position either by utilization of the locking pin 87 or other
fixation device to cause the working tube 35 to remain open. Then,
once the working tube 35 is locked into an open position, the
obturator 33 is actuated to a closed or non-spread position and
gently removed from the working tube 35.
Referring to FIG. 24, the working tube 35 is in place. The working
tube 35 may be secured by structure ultimately attached to an
operating table. The working tube 35 may be held or stabilized in
the field of view by a support 181 which may have an engagement
sleeve 183 which fits onto the working tube. As can be seen, the
operative field adjacent the spine area is expended even though the
incision area is limited. The deeper a given size of working tube
35 is inserted, the smaller its entrance area. After the working
tube 35 is stabilized, the surgeon will typically clear the
remaining multifidus remnant at the working level and then set up
and insert an endoscope or use operating microscope or loupes. The
surgeon is now ready to proceed with laminotomy.
Referring to FIG. 25, further detail on the support 181 and
engagement sleeve 183 is shown. A base support 185 may support a
ball joint 187, which may in turn support the support 181. The
support 181 is shown as supporting a variation on the engagement
sleeve 183 as a pivot point support engagement end 188 having arm
supports 189 and 191. The arm supports 189 and 191 engage the
external pivot structure on the working tube 35 which was shown,
for example, in FIG. 1 to be the external hinge assembly 77.
As a further possibility, the upper angled hemicylindrical portions
67 and 71 are shown as being engaged about their outer periphery by
an adjustable clamp 195. Adjustable clamp 195 includes a band 197
encircling the upper angled hemicylindrical portions 67 and 71. The
ends of band 197 form a pair of opposing plates 199 and are engaged
by a nut 201 and bolt 203 assembly.
Referring to FIG. 26, a side view of the assembly seen in FIG. 25
is seen with the adjustable clamp 195 operable to hold the working
tube 35 open at any position. Referring to FIG. 27, a top view
looking down upon the adjustable clamp 195 seen in FIGS. 25-27
shows the orientation of the working tube 35 and adjustable clamp
195 in fully closed position. When used in conjunction with the
adjustable clamp 195, the Reinforced wear plates 73 and 93 are
eliminated so as to provide a smooth interface against the exterior
of the upper angled hemicylindrical portions 67 and 71.
Referring to FIG. 28, a variation on the obturator 33 is seen. An
obturator 215 has handles 217 and 219 which operate about a pivot
point 221. A working tube 222 is somewhat simplified but is
equivalent to the working tube 35 and is shown as including upper
angled hemicylindrical portions 67 and 71. Handle 219 has a ratchet
member 223 extending from it and a latch 227 pivotally connected
about pivot point 229 to handle 217.
Referring to FIG. 29, a variation on obturator 33 is seen as an
obturator 241 having an upper housing 243, control shaft 245 having
a threaded section 247 and operating through a ball nut 249. A
wedge 251 is extendable down through an operation space made up of
a half space 253 in a leg 255 and a half space 257 in a leg 259.
Hinge structures 261 are shown attaching the legs 255 and 259 to
the upper housing 243. A through bore 111 is also seen as extending
from the knob 261 through to the bottom of the wedge 251. An access
groove 263 is carried by the leg 259 while An access groove 263 is
carried by the leg 259 while an access groove 265 is carried by the
leg 255.
Referring to FIG. 30, a sectional view taken along line 30-30 of
FIG. 29 illustrates the use of a central support block 271 to
support the a central threaded surface 273 and the legs 255 and
259.
Referring to FIG. 31, a view of a thin, inset hinge 281 utilizable
with any of the obturators, but particularly obturators 33 and 241,
is shown. In the case of obturator 33, by way of example, upper
portions 53 accommodate control shaft 49 with its through bore 111.
Inset hinge 281 may be implaced with an inset 283 and secured with
machine screws 285. Inset hinge 281 may be made of a "living hinge"
material such as a hard plastic, or it can have its operations base
upon control bending of a pre-specified length of steel, since the
angle of bend is slight. The connection between the upper portions
53 and the upper control housing 37 may be by any sort of
interlocking mechanism, the aforementioned pivot blocks 59 or other
mechanism.
Referring to FIG. 32, a sectional view of the obturator 33 within
the working tube 35 is seen. The wedge 51 is seen at the bottom of
the internal wedge conforming space 123. Once the spreading of the
working tube 35 is accomplished the working tube 35 is kept open by
any of the methods disclosed herein. Also seen is a pivot ball 116
to allow the control shaft 49 to turn with respect to the wedge.
The pivot ball will continue to support a central aperture bore
111. Once the working tube 35 is stabilized in its open position,
the obturator 33 is returned to its collapsed state as is shown in
FIG. 33.
Provision of electromechanical power to the operation of the
working tube 35 can provide a surgeon an additional degree of
instant control. Referring to FIG. 34, a top and schematic view of
the use of a remote power control to provide instant control of the
working tube 25, similar to the view seen in FIG. 25 illustrates
the use of a remote annular control cable 301 using an internal
cable 303 which is closely attached using a guide 305 and which
circles the upper angled hemicylindrical portion 67 and 71,
terminating at an end fitting 307.
The annular cable 301 is controlled by a BATTERY MOTOR BOX 311
having a forward and reverse switch 313 (with off or non actuation
being the middle position). This enables the surgeon to expand the
surgical field as needed and to collapse the surgical field to
focus on certain working areas. BATTERY MOTOR BOX 311 is configured
with gears to cause the cable 303 to forcibly move axially within
the annular cable 301 to transmit mechanical power to the working
tube 35.
Referring to FIG. 35, a view taken along line 35-35 of FIG. 34
illustrates how the cable 303 is held in place and a closeup of the
end termination 307.
Referring to FIG. 36, a mechanically operated version of the nut
201 and bolt 203 constriction band seen in FIG. 25. The mechanical
power linkage can be provided remotely as by a rotating annular
cable, but the basic mechanical setup shown illustrates the
mechanical principles. On the bolt 203, a gear head 325 is
implaced, either by attachment or by the provision of a threaded
member and gear head made together. A second gear head 327 is
utilized to show the possibility of providing a right angle power
take-off in the event that the power connection interferes with the
area around the surgical field. A shaft 329 extends from a BATTERY
MOTOR BOX 331. The BATTERY MOTOR BOX 331 has a forward and reverse
switch 333, (with off or non actuation being the middle position).
Shaft 329 could be flexible and connected directly into axial
alignment with the threaded member of bolt 201 or an integrally
formed threaded member.
Advantages Over Existing Surgical Techniques
In terms of general advantages, there are differences between the
minimal incision maximal access system 31, and its components as
described in all of the drawings herein (but which will be referred
throughout herein simply as the minimal incision maximal access
system 31, or simply system 31) and other devices and
procedures.
1. With regard to the Traditional microdiskectomy technique, the
minimal incision maximal access system 31 allows for at least the
same, if not better visualization access of the operative field.
System 31 offers the same 3-Dimensional work ability or, if
preferred, an endoscope can be utilized. System 31 minimizes muscle
injury with spread versus extensive cautery dissection. System 31
has clear advantage on the challenging obese and very large patient
where the traditional microdiskectomy technique is almost
impossible to be applied.
2. With regard to open pedicle screw insertion procedures, system
31 offers muscle approach minimizing muscle devascularization and
denervation. The traditional approach had required at least one
level proximal and one level distal additional exposure causing
extensive muscle injury often leading to "fibrotic" muscle changes
resulting in chronic painful and stiff lower back syndrome. System
31 offers the most direct approach to the pedicle entry point
selecting the avascular plane between the longissimus and
multifidus muscles.
3. With regard to the Sextant Procedure, system 31 offers clear
advantage over the Sextant procedure. First, the system 31 offers a
procedure which is not a blind pedicle screw technique. System 31
can be applied to larger and more obese patients in which the
Sextant procedure cannot be utilized. In this procedure using
system 31 oosterolateral fusion can be performed along with
insertion of the pedicle screws. The sextant procedure is strictly
a tension band stabilization.
In general, the components of the minimal incision maximal access
system 31 are very simple the hemispherical shapes used for the
working tube can be round or oval. A keying system can be had to
align the obturator 33 to the working tube 35. In the case of an
oval system, the alignment would be automatic.
The minimal incision maximal access system 31 is a modular system
with interchangeable parts for both the working tube 35 and the
obturator 33. The guide Pin 155 is of simple construction, as is
the fascial incisor 169. The working tube 35 has a limited number
of basic parts, and can be made in the simple, two main piece
version of FIG. 28, or the multi-piece version of FIG. 1, which
enables retractor-sleeve substitution. A hinge and stabilization
mechanism completes the simplified construction.
The obturator 33 is also of simple construction, with upper control
housing 37, pair of spreading legs 39 and 41, and an internal
hinge, whether the pivot blocks 59 or hinge 281 and its ability to
support a control shaft 49 having a bore 111 for a guide pin 155.
Guide pin 155 may preferably have a size of from about 0.3 mm to
0.40 mm diameter and 30 cm to 40 cm in length. The fascial incisor
may preferably be cannulated for usage with the guide pin 155 and
have a width of about 2 mm more than the associated retractor. The
overall cutting head length of about 1.2 cm has a shape as
indicated in the Figures and has a thickness slightly larger than
that of the guide pin 155.
The working tube 35 can have several variations and added details
including the simplest shapes as dictated by intended usage.
Working tube 35 can have a simple fluted hemitube shape or a
Slanted box shape. Further, the possibility of a fluted oval shape
is dictated when the approach is more angular. The working tube 35
can have an attachment for an endoscope. Working tube 35 can also
have a non-symmetric appearance as by having longitudinal cross
sectional shape with half of its shape being rounded and one half
of its shape being rectangular or box shaped. This could also give
rise to a similarly shaped obturator 33. The working tube 35 should
have an anti-reflective inner coating and may be of modular
construction.
The preferred lower dimensions for the lower tube hemicylindrical
portions 65 and 69 include an overall shape which is semi tubular
round or oval and having a width of from about 1.6-3.0 cm and a
length of from about 4.0-18 cm. Hemicylindrical portions 65 and 69
may have custom cut outs depending upon planned application.
The hinge assembly 77 may have male-female post or male-female dial
lock design, as well as a hinge housing and a bias (by spring or
other mechanism) to keep angular displaceable portions of the
working tube 35 closed. A "universal" port provides a point of
attachment of an endoscopic or stabilizer bar.
The obturator 33 may be any controlled opening device including a
circular band or cable, force Plates, or a device attached to hinge
assembly 77 or other hinge assembly.
All sleeve attachments including the attachable legs 39 and 41, as
well as the lower tube hemicylindrical portions 65 and 69 should be
of the friction grip type or snap and lock type or other suitable
connection method or structure.
Obturator 215 may have squeeze grip scissor style handles 219 and
217 and a controlled dilator. It may utilize an enclosed design
with a handle cover having a no-slip surface. It may be attached to
the hinge housing of the working tube or separate hinge housing. In
fact, it may be of a design to be held in place solely by the
working tube 35. Ideally a cavity will be provided through the
center axis to contain the shaft for the dilator mechanism if
applicable.
The central bore 111 of the obturator 33 may have a diameter of
from about 5-10 mm, depending upon the size of the obturator 33
utilized. Obturator 33 should be provided in various widths and
length to match working tube. The working tips of the spreading
legs 39 and 41 may be changeable according to surgical procedures
as described in the operative procedures herein. It may have an
inner chamber, or internal wedge conforming space 123 slanted in
shape wider proximal and more narrow distal to accommodate the
wedge 51. The internal wedge conforming space 123 can be enclosed
with expanding, contracting sleeve.
Other Procedures
Many other procedures can be facilitated with the use of the
inventive minimal incision maximal access system 31 and methods
practiced therewith. Procedure I, a diskectomy and nerve
decompression procedure was described above with reference to the
Figures. Other procedures are as follows:
Procedure II: Facet Fusion
1. Patient prone on Jackson Table with normal lordosis preserved.
This can be increased by placing additional thigh and chest support
to increase lumbar lordosis.
2. Insert percutaneous special guide pin perpendicular to the floor
at a point 1 cm caudal to the Alar-Superior facet notch.
3. Apply a flag guide to a first guide pin 155 #1.
4. Measure skin to bone depth from the scale on guide pin 155
#1.
5. Slide drill guide mechanism on the flag guide to match the skin
bone distance.
6. Insert guide pin 155 #2 through the drill guide to dock on the
superior facet.
7. Make a small skin incision for the obturator 33.
8. Working tube 35 should be small oval or round with medial cutout
to maximally medialize the working tube 35.
9. Advance the working tube 35 to the L5-S1 joint and dock.
10. Drill the guide pin across the joint medial to lateral, rostral
to caudal. If in proper position, advance across the joint to
engage the ala.
11. Drill across the joint with a cannulated drill.
12. Check depth flouroscopically and measure.
13. Pick appropriate screw length.
14. Insert specially designed facet screw and protective bracket,
secure tightly.
Procedure III: Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)
1. First half of the procedure similar to microdiskectomy
(Procedure I) except for the use of a larger diameter sized working
tube 35. Use a 20-25 mm round or elliptical diameter working tube
35 with a medial cutout to allow docking as close to midline as
possible.
2. Following diskectomy enlarge the laminotomy to accommodate the
tools use for the specific PLIF such as Brantigan cage or
Tangent.
Procedure IV: Transfacet Interbody Fusion (TFIF)
1. Follow the same procedure as the PLIF in terms of selecting and
inserting the Working Tube 35.
2. Following the diskectomy, resect the facet joint.
3. Approach the posterolateral disc space through the medial 2/3 of
the facet joint. Take care not to injure the exiting root
above.
4. Proceed with Brantigan cage instruments and interbody cages.
Procedure V: Pedicle Screw Instrumentation Technique
1. Place the patient 151 Prone position on a Jackson Table.
2. Guide pin 155 is docked on facet joint angled 30 degree lateral
to medial in the plane between the longissimus muscle
longitudinally and multifidus muscle medially.
3. Make skin incision.
4. Fascial incisor introduction.
5. Introduce the obturator 33 working tube 35 assembly between the
longissimus and multifidus and progressively open the obturator 33
tip ends of the legs 39 and 41p, gradually reaching from the joint
above and the joint below.
6. Advance the working tube 35 and retract the obturator 33.
7. Use the elliptical Working Tube size 2.5 cm wide and open up to
5 cm.
Procedure IV: Anterior Lateral Lumbar Diskectomy Fusion
1. Mid lateral decubitus position left side up. Place a "waist
roll" to prevent sag of the mid lumbar spine.
2. Identify proper level of surgery fluoroscopically.
3. Insert a guide pin 155 #1 percutaneously into the superior facet
perpendicular to the spine.
4. Measure depth skin to joint on the scaled guide pin 155 #1.
5. Insert cannulated flag guide over guide pin 155 #1.
6. Slide the drill guide to match the depth.
7. Insert a guide pin 155 #2 down to the disc space.
8. Make skin incision and insert fascial cover.
9. Insert the working tube 35 and Obturator 33 combination.
10. Progressively dilate the obturator 33.
11. Advance the working tube 35.
12. Perform anterolateral diskectomy and interbody fusion as taught
above.
13. Use a round or oval shaped retractor or lower tube
hemicylindrical portion 65 and 69 as inserts preferably with distal
end cutouts in each.
Procedure VII: Posterior Cervical Foramenotomy and Lateral Mass
Plating
1. The patient is placed in a prone position on a Jackson
table.
2. Fluoroscopic identification of the level of surgery is had.
3. Percutaneously insert guide pin 155 with AP and lateral
fluoroscopic views.
4. Make the initial skin incision.
5. Apply the working tube 35 with obturator 33 into the
incision.
6. Perform slow dilation of the muscle.
7. Advance the working tube 35 and collapse and remove the
obturator 33.
8. Proceed with surgery. Type of sleeve or lower tube
hemicylindrical portion 65 should be round or oval with slanted and
to match the slanted lamina.
9. For application for Lateral mass plating use an oval working
tube 35 for a greater exposure.
Procedure VIII: Anterior Cervical Diskectomy Fusion
1. Begin with standard anterior cervical diskectomy fusion approach
with a incision on the left or right side of the neck.
2. Blunt finger dissection is performed between the lateral
vascular structures and the medial strap muscle and visceral
structures down to the prevertebral fascia.
3. Establish the correct level to be operated on fluoroscopically
and the guide pin 155 inserted into the disc.
4. Apply the working tube 35 and obturator 33 combination and dock
at the proper level of the anterior sping.
5. Open the working tube 35 and obturator 33.
6. Mobilize longus colli muscle.
7. Use special Bent Homen Retractor specifically design to retract
the longus colli.
8. Proceed with surgery.
Procedure IX: Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion
1. Begin with the standard approach whether it is retroperitoneal,
transperitoneal or laparoscopic.
2. Apply the special anterior lumbar interbody fusion working tube
35 and obturator 33. This is a design with a medial lateral
opening. It is oval shape and preferably with skirts 133 and 135.
The distal end of the retractor sleeve is slightly flared outward
to retract the vessels safely. There is a skirt 133 or 135 applied
to the cephalad side and possibly to the caudal side.
3. With the vessels and the abdominal contents safely retracted out
of harms way, proceed with diskectomy and fusion.
While the present system 31 has been described in terms of a system
of instruments and procedures for facilitating the performance of a
microscopic lumbar diskectomy procedure, one skilled in the art
will realize that the structure and techniques of the present
system 31 can be applied to many appliances including any appliance
which utilizes the embodiments of the instrumentation of the system
31 or any process which utilizes the steps of the system 31.
Although the system 31 has been derived with reference to
particular illustrative embodiments thereof, many changes and
modifications of the system 31 may become apparent to those skilled
in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the
system 31. Therefore, included within the patent warranted hereon
are all such changes and modifications as may reasonably and
properly be included within the scope of this contribution to the
art.
* * * * *